One thing that has been clear is that Elden Ring has definitely cast a wide net to bring in all the casual non-FromSoftware fans to start playing its game, or at least give it a good go. For those who might have made Elden Ring their first, or even their early starter game into the Souls-like genre, it’s been quite some time since they would’ve completed the base game, roughly two years since its release. FromSoftware are fantastic in just expanding their games with any DLC in the likes of Bloodborne and Dark Souls 3. In fact, you can likely say that if you enjoyed Elden Ring’s base game, you’ll likely enjoy the latest DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree. And yes, it’s still known for its tough gameplay, but the bigger challenge is if players still remember the controls from two years ago. For many of us, it's definitely going to be a little bit of a struggle.

Not to give too much away in terms of narrative, boss fights etc, the new DLC’s initial enemy challenges might see players who completed the game comfortably feeling that Shadow of the Erdtree’s difficulty is a little on the easier side, minus the SL1 players but that’s another discussion altogether. Most new players would have gotten used to the play style of no hack and slashing, but also their end game character is likely rather powerful. That said, the bar is raised relatively quickly when you meet your first major boss in the DLC. Yes, you might be used to the game, yes you quickly remember and work out the controls again, however, in a typical souls fashion, the learning curve to dodge or parry with precision attacks comes flooding in fast as one simple greedy attack could easily mean death. As per souls fashion, you’ll quickly know who your new tutorial boss is, and who your actual first boss is quite easily, so players be wary.

That said, there’s one major update that’ll definitely help players in Shadows of the Erdtree which are upgrade items named Scadutree Blessings. These items are found scattered across the shadow lands from Miquella’s footsteps represented as crosses, which can be also found next to a site of grace save point, or just found at different locations. With that in mind, the game definitely encourages players to explore all nooks and crannies of the large map. The Scadutree Blessing helps players increase damage caused while also reducing damage taken, making the game a little easier for those who may find the DLC a little too difficult. That said, for the seasoned souls fan who love a challenge, you can reset this which would then increase the difficulty. These options, to use the Scadutree Blessing or reset its use, can be found under the new menu option Shadow Realm Blessing when resting at a Site of Grace. The other upgrade material for the DLC found scattered across the lands are the Revered Spirit Ash Blessings, which in similarity to the Scadutree Blessing, but will boost summoned spirits and your spectral steed’s abilities to give and reduce damage. One thing to keep in mind is that these upgrades are optional, and are only effective in the Realm of Shadows. The minute you return back to the areas of the base game, these boosts are ineffective.

It’s also very clear in Shadow of the Erdtree is FromSoftware wanting players to try all their new weapons that have been added. Not only have chests been easily scattered across the land such as castles and dungeons, but there’s a whole lot of smithing stones scattered everywhere. Whether it’s from defeating enemies, or just hidden at certain spots, they’re relatively easy to find. This obviously is a way to get players upgraded early in the DLC. Coupling that with the boost of the Scadutree Blessings would definitely make the game a lot easier, if players were having difficulty in the DLC, or hadn't levelled up their character enough by the end of the base game. However, if you’re anything like me, you might just love familiarity and stick with the good ‘ol trusty longsword in Dark Souls games, or in the instance of Elden Ring, the katana. That said, make sure you do go through all the new weapons found as there are new categories, one being a light greatsword amongst many more. It’s also worth noting that some of these new weapons have a way to connect and chain longer attack combos, so having a play through each one to find a possible new favourite is recommended.

The DLC’s map seems relatively big, and not to give anything away but exploration is both scary and exciting at the same time. FromSoftware has done a great job in integrating elements from the base game as well as expanding some enemies, dungeons and just different areas. In fact, the way FromSoftware added on the DLC feels seamless in which you wouldn’t think you’re playing an add on if it hadn’t been for the two year wait. You’d even question how they’re able to spread out the Land of Shadow so much. That said, it has been two years since, which would give them plenty of time to have developed it.

If I was nit-picking, the only issue I found was that I needed to re-download the game to trigger DLC as the NPC you’re supposed to meet at the remains of Miquella’s cocoon was nowhere to be seen. Apart from that little glitch, the game worked perfectly fine, in which after reading the dialogue with Lady Leda, you interact with Miquella’s dangling arm, where you’re transported into the new area.

Ultimately, Shadows of the Erdtree is made for players who are familiar with Elden Ring, and/or the Souls genre. For those who are only starting on this journey, give it time. And know that dying is a normal thing in souls games. Once you persevere through its difficulty and have a lightbulb moment for the game mechanics, you’ll definitely feel rewarded in defeating the most difficult enemies. In fact, Elden Ring would probably be one of the better souls genre to start with and there’s plenty of flexibility to tweak its difficulty. For the seasoned players and FromSoftware fans, you’ve obviously been holding your breath for the past two years and it’s finally out. Yes, it’s as good as the main game, and yes there are opportunities to make things a little easier if you wish. But all in all, if you enjoyed completing the game, you’ll definitely enjoy the DLC. In fact, don’t waste your time reading this, and get playing!